Radish Cake: A Delicious and Nutritious Culinary Delight

Radish cake, also known as lo bak go in Cantonese, is a traditional dish in Chinese cuisine that has gained global popularity for its savory flavor and delightful texture. Made with grated radish, rice flour, and a mix of aromatic ingredients, radish cake is often enjoyed during dim sum or festive occasions. This guide explores everything you need to know about radish cake, including its nutritional value, health benefits, and preparation methods.

Introduction

Radish cake is a beloved dish known for its unique combination of flavors and textures. Originating in China, it is typically made with daikon radish, rice flour, and savory ingredients like dried shrimp and Chinese sausage. Steamed until firm and then pan-fried until crispy, radish cake is a versatile dish that can be served as a snack, appetizer, or main course.

What is Radish Cake?

Radish cake is a savory dish made primarily from grated daikon radish mixed with rice flour to form a batter. This batter is combined with flavorful ingredients such as dried shrimp, Chinese sausage, and mushrooms, then steamed and pan-fried. It is a popular dish during dim sum and is often served as a celebratory food during Lunar New Year.

Nutritional Value of Radish Cake

Radish cake is both delicious and nutritious. Here’s its approximate nutritional profile (per 100g):

Calories: 150
Protein: 3g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fat: 4g
Fiber: 2g
Sodium: 400mg (varies depending on the recipe)

Health Benefits of Radish Cake

1. Rich in Nutrients

The daikon radish used in radish cake is low in calories and high in essential nutrients like vitamin C, potassium, and fiber.

2. Supports Digestive Health

Radishes are known for their digestive enzymes, which aid in breaking down food and promoting gut health.

3. Provides Energy

The rice flour base in radish cake is a good source of carbohydrates, providing energy to fuel your day.

4. Low in Saturated Fat

When made with minimal oil, radish cake is relatively low in saturated fat, making it a healthier savory dish.

5. Versatile for Dietary Needs

Radish cake can be adapted for vegetarian or gluten-free diets by modifying ingredients.

How to Make Radish Cake

Ingredients

Daikon Radish: 800g, grated
Rice Flour: 200g
Cornstarch: 30g
Dried Shrimp: 50g, soaked and chopped
Chinese Sausage: 2 pieces, diced
Dried Shiitake Mushrooms: 5, soaked and chopped
Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
Soy Sauce: 1 tablespoon
Salt and Pepper: To taste

Instructions

Prepare the Daikon Radish: Peel and grate the radish. Cook it in a pan over medium heat until softened and water is released. Set aside to cool.
Cook the Aromatics: Sauté garlic, dried shrimp, sausage, and mushrooms in a pan until fragrant. Add soy sauce and set aside.
Mix the Batter: Combine rice flour, cornstarch, and cooked radish (including its liquid). Add the sautéed mixture and mix well.
Steam the Cake: Pour the batter into a greased or parchment-lined pan. Steam over medium heat for 45–60 minutes until firm.
Pan-Fry for Serving (Optional): Once cooled, slice the steamed radish cake into pieces and pan-fry until golden and crispy on both sides.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

Serving Suggestions

Serve with soy sauce, chili oil, or hoisin sauce for dipping.
Pair with a cup of hot tea for a traditional dim sum experience.

Variations

Vegetarian Radish Cake: Replace shrimp and sausage with additional mushrooms or tofu.
Spicy Radish Cake: Add diced chili or chili oil to the batter for a spicy twist.
Gluten-Free Version: Use tamari instead of soy sauce and ensure all ingredients are gluten-free.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I freeze radish cake?

Answer: Yes, steamed radish cake can be frozen and reheated by steaming or pan-frying.

2. What type of radish should I use?

Answer: Daikon radish is the traditional choice, but any mild-flavored radish can work.

3. How long does radish cake last?

Answer: Radish cake can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or in the freezer for up to 2 months.

4. Is radish cake gluten-free?

Answer: Traditional recipes may contain soy sauce, which often has gluten. Use gluten-free tamari to make it gluten-free.

5. Can I make radish cake ahead of time?

Answer: Yes, you can steam the cake in advance and pan-fry it just before serving for the best texture.

Conclusion

Radish cake is a delicious and versatile dish that combines the mild sweetness of daikon radish with savory ingredients for a perfect balance of flavors. Whether you enjoy it steamed, pan-fried, or as part of a dim sum spread, radish cake is sure to impress with its taste and texture. Try making your own radish cake at home and experience this beloved dish!